Lawyer Salary in San Diego, CA
2024 BLS OEWS Data · Legal · COL Index: 160.2
$165,000
Median Salary
$193,670
Mean Salary
$102,996
COL-Adjusted
8,990
Employment
Salary Distribution
Percentile Breakdown
| Percentile | Salary | COL-Adjusted |
|---|---|---|
| 10th Percentile (Entry Level) | $78,730 | $49,145 |
| 25th Percentile | $107,700 | $67,228 |
| 50th Percentile (Median) | $165,000 | $102,996 |
| 75th Percentile | $214,990 | $134,201 |
| 90th Percentile (Top Earners) | $279,977 | $174,767 |
What Drives the Range
The $201,247 spread between the 10th and 90th percentiles for Lawyer positions in San Diego, CA reflects several factors. Entry-level professionals and those in smaller organizations typically fall in the lower quartiles, while senior specialists, those with in-demand certifications, and employees at large enterprises command salaries in the upper percentiles.
San Diego, CA's cost-of-living index of 160.2 means that a $165,000 median salary here has the same purchasing power as $102,996 in an average-cost U.S. city. Despite the higher cost of living, this metro area offers a deep talent pool and typically higher total compensation when including equity and bonuses.